CULINARY QUESTS

Antietam National Battlefield

Visit Antietam National Battlefield site of the famous battle that caused President Lincoln to issue the Preliminary Emancipation Proclamation. A must do is a visit to Antietam Creek Vineyards, offering Sangrias and Bordeaux-style blends, and live music on weekends. Getting hungry? Stop at the Battleview Market to get to-go snacks and sandwiches to take to the winery. Also, Bonnie’s at the Red Byrd serves up some of the best home cookin’ in the area. One social media review noted “Delicious food, great service, yummy desserts, reasonable prices. Homey atmosphere is soothing in these unsettling times. What more could you want?”

ALONG THE C&O CANAL

In Williamsport scarf up home cooked regional delights such as Slippery Pot Pie, Steamers (not what you think!) and more at Mama LuLu’s Famous as a dining spot for hikers and bikers along the Canal, visitors come here from all over the USA and indeed even the world to get refreshed and refueled. Stop at Cushwa Brewery a microbrewery with innovated offerings, is named for the Cushwa Basin where the Canal boats would turn around. New to the brew scene is Interchange Tiki Bar and Brewing, an experience bridging the gap between your favorite tiki bar and brewery, also in Williamsport.

In Hancock there are some amazing and unique dining and foodie experiences. The Blue Goose Bakery is THE place to get local homemade pies and other baked goods and assorted deliciousness. Using locally grown fruits and berries, the Fruits of the Forest pie is a well-known favorite. Dine at Buddy Lou’s Antiques and Eats for a truly unique experience with a view of the Canal. We suggest the Truffle Fries – just take our word for it.

Boonsboro And South County

Take the National Road into Boonsboro hometown to Nora Roberts, world-famous romance novelist. She has several businesses in the town. Stay overnight at Inn BoonsBoro with 9 rooms devoted to famous literary characters, and their breakfasts for guests are out of this world. Dan’s Tap House serves up superb pizza, pasta, subs and more. Grab a great cuppa at her bookstore, Turn the Page , then sneak over to Gifts Inn Boonsboro where they highlight local artisans and sell locally made gifts. A quick jaunt off the National Road onto MD67, be sure to stop at Big Cork Vineyards to sample their award winning wines in the tasting room or outside on the veranda. Stunning mountain views make for the perfect backdrop to this must-do.

Funkstown

In Funkstown a quaint small town also along the National Road, Blue Mountain Boutique Wine Tasting Room is open to serve tastings and offers classes in home wine-making and brewing. Just outside of Funkstown is Antietam Entertainment & Dinner Theater offering year-round performances. Their most popular show is the “Christmas Experience.” Do some shopping at the quaint shops that dot the town’s main street.

Hagerstown

Once in Hagerstown catch a performance at the beautiful historic Maryland Theatre. Known for their line up of performances, there are amazing shows that have been captivating audiences since 1915. The Schmankerl Stube Bavarian Restaurant offers authentic Bavarian cuisine and is known for Chef Dieter’s variety of dishes.

For an after-dinner or show beverage, check out Meinelschmidt Distillery our first specializing in high end whiskeys.

Grab a local brew and a nosh, at Antietam Brewery For family fun, a stop in Clear Spring means a visit to Wilson’s Store where you can buy old time candies and homemade potato chips in their General Store.

Fruit Loops Washington County Style

While not along an official Byway route, the scenery along the way to these spots is equally breathtaking, creating some of the best our county has to offer. Primarily located near Smithsburg, stops here include Red Heifer Winery for their unique varietals and lovely vistas. Some great ice cream, sandwiches, and sunflower fields are part of the offerings at Misty Meadow Farm Creamery. Fun family friendly events, including pick your own berries take place at Ivy Hill Farms, and Rhinehart Orchards

While this list is not all-inclusive, visitors can get more info from our website at visithagerstown.com. Our Scenic Byways are the best way to see so many of our attractions, museums, and historical sites. It’s also a unique way to road-trip, where the journey IS the destination!

Fun Facts

FIRST IN THE UNITED STATES FIRST IN THE UNITED STATES WORLD’S FIRST WORLD’S FIRST

Washington County is the first of 31 United States counties to be named in honor of George Washington the Father of our Country. Founded in 1776, the county honored Washington before he was our Nation’s president.

The Big Screen The Big Screen

Movies filmed here: Guarding Tess, Gods and Generals, and Lovely Molly.

Caverns Caverns

The inventor of Tabasco Sauce Edmund McIlhenny, was born in Hagerstown, his father was a Mayor.

The Washington County Free Library began the world’s first bookmobile service in 1905.

Only One In The Nation Only One In The Nation

The War Correspondents’ Arch in Gathland State Park is the only national monument to a free press, and also the only memorial to journalists who gave their lives while providing war coverage.

Hall Of Fame Hall Of Fame

Willie Mays played his very first professional baseball game at Hagerstown's former Municipal Stadium in 1950. Crystal Grottoes has more formations per square foot than any other cave known to man – and is the only commercial cavern in Maryland.

PRESIDENTIAL PRESIDENTIAL 11ST

The first presidential retreat , Woodmont, was founded in Washington County in 1870.

11ST

The Washington Monument , built July 4, 1827, in Boonsboro, is the earliest completed monument that honors our country’s first president.